We are thankful for Mount Juliet and our Veterans
Reflecting is something our family does daily at the dinner table. We have a tradition every night to go around the table, pray as a family and then ask our girls, "What was the best part of your day and the worst part?" This helps us spark conversation with our growing teens and even ourselves. Sometimes the day gets away from us with sports and social activities but we make a point to have a few sit-downs a week with our girls and make sure that we help them reflect.
I often reflect personally and I've said it many times before here, but our family is so thankful for this city. There are so many things that happen here that don't go unnoticed by the community. There is an incredibly strong force of unity here that is unlike many other smaller towns throughout the U.S. It helps me appreciate the opportunity we have as a family to bring powerful stories to the surface of our city through this publication. It is an honor to share with the rest of the country, how it's done. How we come together in hard times. How we remember those who have served our country. Most importantly how we can help others and be a good neighbor.
This month is our thankful issue. Centered around this month is of course, Thanksgiving, but it is also the month that we honor our veterans who have served our country. I am so honored to have connected with an incredibly special veteran living among us, for so many years here in Mount Juliet, Norman Weber. You will find his story compelling, heartwarming, and absolutely inspiring. We also connected with a local musician who serves our community teaching young musicians what he loves most while he also puts it in action touring the world. From baseball to a century of service we have so many stories this month you may not be aware are living locally here in MJ.
We hope this month you can reflect and find a plethora of reasons you are thankful. We also hope that if you are in abundance, you find ways to give back to those who need it most. If you have extra room at your table during this Thanksgiving, invite a neighbor. If you have extra time in your week, find ways to serve your local families in need. KIMBERLY THOMAS, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Courtney Stockton
COPY EDITOR
Summer Thomas
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Karly Thomas
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Courtney Stockton, Sofia Delilah, Kourtney McComb, Lindsey Hickman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Leigh Ann Remke, Comisario, Kimberlee Brooke & Co., Kelsi Carter, Patrick Robinson, Mandy Atmosvere, Annie Loughead
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Don’t let back pain come between you and the ones you love.
Back pain doesn’t have to be a fact of life. World class spine care is now available closer to you here in Wilson county. At Vanderbilt Spine Center, we provide advanced treatment options for back and neck pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis and other spine conditions. Our compassionate, experienced team of experts will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Best of all, this world-class spine care is conveniently located in Mt. Juilet.
To learn more and make your appointment, call 615-875-5100 or scan the QR code.
Making Pe r sonal
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 11/30/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
this
be possible without our local
1-3: CASA presents their annual Benefits Show with a Wizard Of Oz theme
year! This night wouldn’t
boutiques. Sister’s Whimzy, 3:Sixteen, Sassy Daisy, Urban Mills, Basement Marketplace and Tailored and Trimmed.
business monthly
Melissa King Expands her Team as a Mother Daughter Duo
The Melissa King Group is proud to welcome Elyssia Sharrow, daughter of Melissa and Kevin King to their team. "Nashville has always been home, and I'm passionate about helping others navigate the real estate market to reach their homeownership goals. The opportunity to work alongside my mother while building my own family is a dream come true. I believe family businesses are what make our communities special, and I'm proud to continue this tradition in a city I love."
Joe Byrum presented the Distinguished Alumni Award
Cumberland University President Dr. Paul C. Stumb presented Joe Byrum with the Distinguished Alumni Award in Mobile, Alabama, on September 20. This prestigious honor recognizes alumni whose achievements reflect the university’s values. Byrum, a Cumberland University alumnus since 1966, excelled in the food and healthcare industries, serving as President and CEO of Morrison Management Services and creating Morrison Healthcare. His legacy embodies CU's mission to foster impactful leaders.
Lakeside ISR Celebrates One year in business!
Lakeside ISR celebrated its one year anniversary mid-October as it wrapped up the 2024 season! Lakeside ISR, a swim program specializing in gentle, safe, one-on-one survival swim lessons, will begin scheduling for the 2025 season in November. To get on the waitlist, email Certified ISR Instructor kristina.richie@ infantswim.com. For more info about lessons, visit www.lakesideisr.com.
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Photography by Kimberlee Brooke & Co.
Photography by Kimberlee Brooke & Co.
Deck The Halls gives away a Lamborghini for the day!
Deck the Halls Christmas lights has partnered with Music City Dream Cars this holiday season. Book a job and place your deposit by Thanksgiving, follow them on one of their socials and share a post to be entered to win a free Lamborghini for a day! Drawing for the winner will be on black Friday. Visit their website, www.deckth ehallschristmaslights.com to schedule your free quote today!
Bloom Pediatric adds Therapy Dog (Lolli) to their team!
Bloom Pediatric Therapy is happy to announce they will be getting a therapy dog! Her name is Lolli and she is proudly brought to Bloom through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Her owner is Bloom Occupational Therapist, Kerri.
Kevin Wolverton Sr., receives award from Mayor Rick Bell
Kevin Wolverton, Sr., an employee at Wilson County Chevrolet, received the award for saving a little girl's life from drowning in the rock quarry behind/beside the dealership. Mayor Rick Bell took it upon himself to award Kevin with a plaque for his selfless actions. Fire Chief Jason Baird and Police Chief Mike Justice were present for the awarding as well.
Anderson Architects expands team with Interior Designer Olivia McMurtry
Anderson Architects is proud to announce that they have hired their own interior designer, Olivia McMurtry. This addition allows them to complement their wide array of architectural services with interior design, material selection, and space planning.
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Wilkerson Center in Lebanon as a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She will offer facial rejuvenation services (Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, micro needling) along with aesthetic surgery (brow lift, eyelid surgery, face lift, lip lift, rhinoplasty) at this clinic.
Antique and Garden Show announces speakers
The Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville returns to the Music City Center for their 35th year from January 31 to February 2, 2025. This year's theme, “Cultivating Home: Life Well Tended,” features exciting keynote speakers Brooke Shields and Sheryl Crow, alongside floral and design lectures and many more household names. 150 vendors have already been secured for the event that will benefit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and ECON Charities. Tickets are on sale now at antiquesandgardenshow.com.
From the Diamond to Mortgage
AN UNEXPECTED PLOT TWIST THAT LED TO A REWARDING CAREER
ARTICLE BY SOFIA DELILAH PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIGH ANN REMKE AND PROVIDED
Photo Credit Leigh Ann Remke Photography
Cale Iorg’s path to banking reads like an unexpected plot twist, beginning on a sunny afternoon at an Alabama football game. Living in Atlanta at the time, Cale and his wife met a young man whose father owned a mortgage company. This serendipitous encounter led to a phone call that would change Cale's life forever. “My dad would like to talk to you. Is that okay?” the young man texted, setting the wheels in motion.
What followed was a conversation that highlighted Cale’s potential. The owner emphasized his desire to hire ex-athletes for their discipline, self-motivation, and competitiveness. Little did Cale know, these attributes would soon shape his career in ways he never imagined. Just months later, after dealing with recurring injuries in professional baseball, Cale called the owner back. That conversation landed him a job, where he thrived for over a decade, rising from a novice to a top performer in the mortgage industry.
After a move to Nashville, Cale initially joined another bank, but fate intervened. A former colleague at BankSouth reached out, wanting Cale to help launch their Nashville branch. “I had always known BankSouth for their competitive edge,” he said, recalling how they consistently outperformed his previous company. Intrigued, Cale explored the opportunity and couldn’t resist the call to join a brand that resonated with his values.
Cale’s baseball background profoundly influences his approach to banking. Growing up in a family of baseball players—his father played for the Toronto Blue Jays, and two uncles had stellar careers—Cale embraced the game’s tenets of teamwork and resilience. “I grew up in a baseball clubhouse; it was all I ever wanted to do,” he recalled. Even after being drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays and later the Detroit Tigers, injuries derailed his ambitions, prompting a pivot to the mortgage industry.
Now, as Cale settles into life in Mount Juliet, he reflects on his decision to move. “I jokingly refer to it as Pleasantville,” he laughs. The community spirit and familial connections drew him in, as his kids thrive playing with cousins nearby. “I believe in building relationships,” he said, emphasizing that his business thrives not on cold calls but on the trust and camaraderie he fosters within the community. Cale has been embraced warmly by locals, who frequently introduce him to new contacts, solidifying his place in the area.
When it comes to family, Cale’s joy as a dad shines through. With four children, he revels in their laughter and the small moments that make life rich. “I love seeing them smile,” he said, whether they’re enjoying the Wilson County Fair or simply taking a neighborhood walk. Cale and his wife, Kristin, have prioritized experiences over material gifts for their children, often sneaking away to the beach or the mountains to create lasting memories.
But Cale’s creativity doesn’t stop at banking and fatherhood. He has embarked on a passion project called Bill Buddy, designed to protect hat brims during travel—a nod to his own obsession with hats. “If I had Bill Buddy back in my baseball days, I would have saved so many hats!” he chuckles. Cale’s journey has been about more than just career shifts; it’s about bringing ideas to life and making travel easier for fellow hat enthusiasts.
As Cale navigates the home industry, he emphasizes its crucial role in the economy. “The home industry makes up over a third of the US economy,” he pointed out, highlighting the unique challenges posed by recent events like COVID-19. Cale remains optimistic about the future, predicting a return to stability in housing prices and a gradual decrease in interest rates. “I’m the guy you can call for an open, honest conversation,” he reassured, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building in his work.
Settling into Mount Juliet has been a delightful adventure for Cale and his family. They enjoy exploring Nashville’s vibrant culinary scene, reveling in live music, and cheering for local sports teams. With college football back, the Iorg household is alive with excitement—“Roll Tide!” rings out during game days. The picturesque Smoky Mountains beckon for fall adventures, and Cale is eager to discover more of Tennessee’s beauty with his family.
“I realize we need to do more stuff!” he laughed, inviting anyone with recommendations to reach out. As Cale Iorg charts his path in banking, it’s clear that his journey is marked not only by professional achievements but also by the love of family, community, and the spirit of adventure. The diamond may have led him to the mortgage industry, but it’s his commitment to building relationships that will define his legacy in Tennessee.
“I believe in building relationships.”
“Cale and his wife, Kristin, have prioritized experiences over material gifts for their children, often sneaking away to the beach or the mountains to create lasting memories.”
THE BR IDGE
LOCAL VETERAN RECALLS HIS FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE OF WWII
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STOCKTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Norman and his wife Sandy
“It bothered me that all my life long, I only knew what a child observed, but I didn’t know what the real world was. I saw human beings being mistreated and my parents would never tell me why.”
Most of us can recall some vibrant childhood memories – poignant either due to their idyllic or traumatic nature. Regardless of the prevailing emotion, they seem to have a paradoxical quality. They’re both vivid, and yet, somewhat shrouded in mystery. For local veteran Norman Weber, some of his most intense childhood memories shaped his life, and yet, he wouldn’t fully understand them for many years to come.
Of course, Norman’s childhood was quite extraordinary. Born in America to two German parents, the family would return to Germany in 1939. Given the time and place, history buffs can probably predict where this is going – and what environment Norman would be subjected to. But he would have a particularly unique vantage point – and at an age that was formative.
“My family ended up living next to a forced labor camp and we lived next to a
munitions factory. The largest munitions factory (DAG) the Nazi’s had. My uncle worked in that factory. He was a high official. He had a house, a beautiful house, given by the factory, and we lived there the last nine months (of the war). That is where I witnessed, observed – and it’s everything in my head, what happened in the war.”
Suffice it to say, Norman saw a lot – more than any child, or adult for that matter, should have to see. He recalls, of his bird’s eye view of the Buchberg labor camp, “I saw them. And I always wondered, how did that work? How did they get there? My cousin and I shared the room upstairs on the second floor. And we would always hear – and we would see things. And we would wonder why. And my mother kept saying, keep it quiet. Keep it quiet. Even in the old house with my relatives – keep it quiet. Because I was an American citizen and that could’ve caused problems if that got out.”
Norman Weber as a child with his family in Germany
“I observed the worst of humanity in the last nine months of World War II, but I also witnessed heroism – in the form of the Americans coming.” - Norman Weber
It's not surprising, given what he saw at the age he saw it, that he had questions. But the adults who surrounded him were unable to contextualize it. “It bothered me that all my life long, I only knew what a child observed, but I didn’t know what the real world was. I saw human beings being mistreated and my parents would never tell me why.”
Norman observed the worst of humanity in the last nine months of World War II, but he also witnessed heroism – in the form of the Americans coming. It’s probably one of the reasons why, when the opportunity presented itself to join the US military, Norman ended up back in the country in which he was born, to complete basic training. He would go on to spend six and a half years in the military, while getting married, adopting children, and laying down his American roots.
But what he witnessed in his childhood still confounded him. He would go down many avenues (including therapy) to cope with and attempt to understand his experiences. In 2015, he would consult the recesses of his mind (and his grandmother’s diary), to pen a book of recollections entitled, Bombs, Basements, and Bunkers: An American Boy in Germany During World War Two.
And in a serendipitous turn of events, a man in a small community in Germany would end up getting ahold of Norman’s book. That man was Friedrich Schumacher from the Geretsried Historical Working Group; Gerestried happens to be the very small Bavarian town where Norman had observed and experienced so much.
The connection between Norman and Friedrich would prove to be illuminating for both of them.
“The light went on, because he could tell me what the adult world was and then I could couple that with what I knew as a child and saw,” Norman explains. In return, Norman was able to obtain documents from the American Air Force, as Friedrich wanted to know more about the bombing raid in 1945. Their relationship was symbiotic and yielded answers for both – and those answers have likely provided a sense of resolution, if not peace for Norman.
Just last year, Norman returned to Gerestried, at the behest of his friend Friedrich. After the Allies bombed the town, the empty bunkers and buildings were used to house German refugees from former ethnic German areas in Eastern Europe. In 1949, the citizens began to organize themselves and the community of Geretsried came into being in 1950.
As one might expect, it was an emotional trip, where the townspeople asked him to sign the book of remembrance of the city. Norman asked them why. “Who am I for you, because your city was founded in 1950.” They explained that he was the only person alive today who witnessed everything. “You’re the bridge for our city,” they explained. A bridge between the horrible memories of the past and the promising present day, where the town, Norman, and no doubt, the world, is still attempting to process what that young boy saw from his window. And though at times, he likely wished he didn’t, what a blessing to that town, that Norman remembers.
Norman’s friends welcoming him back to Germany
ILLUMINATE
BEAUTY your
THE WONDERS OF RED LIGHT THERAPY WITH SOUTH BEACH TANNING COMPANY
ARTICLE BY SOFIA DELILAH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK ROBINSON
As the sun sets on conventional skin care methods, Red Light Therapy (RLT) emerges as a vibrant alternative, promising to rejuvenate and restore. At South Beach Tanning Company, owner Alex Friedrichsen invites us to discover this innovative treatment that not only brightens your complexion but also revitalizes your skin from the inside out.
Kimberlee Brooke & Co.
The secret behind RLT lies in its ability to stimulate collagen production, enhancing the overall appearance of your skin. “It’s a game-changer,” says Friedrichsen. “It improves fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and even stretch marks.” And the best part? There’s no age restriction, Alex assures. RLT is suitable for everyone, making it a perfect option for teens battling acne and seniors seeking to regain their youthful glow.
But what makes RLT stand out in a sea of beauty treatments? The range of services offered at South Beach Tanning Company provides unique experiences tailored to your needs. The stand-up unit delivers full-body treatment with an added bonus: a vibration plate that tones muscles, boosts circulation, and reduces cellulite. For those who prefer relaxation, the laydown bed offers a serene 15-minute escape, enveloping you in healing light.
If you’re looking to target specific areas, the PolyPro device works wonders on the face, neck, and relax while you enjoy the soothing comfort of a massage chair for 20 luxurious minutes.
Beyond aesthetics, RLT also supports muscle recovery and reduces inflammation by increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production. It’s the perfect remedy for those wary of surgery or needles. Just remember: consistency is key. For best results, aim for at least three sessions a week.
So, why not carve out some time for yourself? Embrace the transformative power of Red Light Therapy and let your inner glow shine!
“It’s a game-changer,” says Friedrichsen. “It improves fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and even stretch marks.”
Patrick Robinson Relive Studio
Patrick Robinson Relive Studio
Fall Blackberry Margarita
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BY COMISARIO TEQUILA
Award-Winning Tequila Comisario; Unique from Seed to Sip, Setting the Bar for Spirit Excellence
Tequila Comisario has a reputation built on a pure passion for agave spirits and a commitment to crafting the world’s best tequilas. Tequila Comisario is crafted from 100% natural Blue Weber Agave, native to Mexico, grown in rich, red soil in the Los Altos Golden Triangle region of Jalisco.
ingredients: Comisario Blackberry Margarita
• 2 oz Tequila Comisario (silver or reposado)
• 1 oz triple sec (or another orange liqueur)
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 oz blackberry puree (or fresh blackberries blended)
• ½ oz agave syrup (or simple syrup, to taste)
• Ice (for blending or serving)
• Black salt or sugar (for rimming the glass, optional)
• Optional elements:
• Blackberry or edible flowers (for garnish)
• Black sugar or edible glitter (for rimming the glass)
• A small amount of activated charcoal (for a darker color, optional)
directions:
Step 1. Prepare the glass: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it in black salt or black sugar for a wicked touch.
Step 2. Blend the margarita: In a blender, combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, blackberry puree, agave syrup, and ice. Blend until smooth and slushy. If you want a darker color, you can add a small pinch of activated charcoal.
Oh Baby Expands
Thankful Owner, Ashton Underwood is thrilled to expand with second location
ARTICLE BY SOFIA DELILAH PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO.
Ashton Underwood, owner of Oh Baby Ultrasound + Boutique, is thrilled to announce the expansion into Franklin, Tennessee—a dream she’s nurtured since purchasing the Murfreesboro location. Nestled in The Maples Shopping Center, the new facility will offer the same exceptional 3D and 4D ultrasound services, gender reveal items, and boutique finds, alongside exciting new packages debuting soon.
“I fell in love with patient care while working as an ARDMS certified sonographer,” Underwood shares. “Our goal is to create a client-centered experience, making mamas feel cared for and loved.” At Oh Baby, clients
become like family as they embark on their pregnancy journeys, a sentiment Underwood is eager to share with Franklin’s community.
Beyond business, Underwood balances her entrepreneurial spirit with family life, raising four energetic boys with her husband, David. “We spend a lot of our time outdoors, whether fishing on the Harpeth River or exploring local parks,” she says, emphasizing their bond and shared joys.
For those unfamiliar with Oh Baby's offerings, Underwood describes it as an immersive
experience: “Imagine a serene room, surrounded by loved ones, watching your unborn baby on a 120-inch screen—these are moments that create lasting memories.”
With heartfelt customer stories echoing their mission, Underwood is passionate about ensuring families have a positive, unforgettable ultrasound experience. “We help mamas bond with their babies before birth! That's what it's all about,” she adds.
Excited for this new chapter, Underwood invites you to visit Oh Baby at 1010 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 146, or online at https://www.ohbabytn.com.
100 Years of Serving
A CENTURY OF INVESTING IN STRONG BUSINESS GROWTH FOR WILSON
“We take pride in our rich history, our services to our businesses and to our community,” said Melanie Minter, Current President and CEO of Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce at the 100 year anniversary celebration in February. Leading the chamber has brought her countless favorite memories, with the 2018 renovation of their 6,400 square foot building to include ADA compliant upgrades to accommodate their growing membership, adding a boardroom with state of the art equipment, a social hub overlooking the square and additional office space for rent, being one of them.
Her proud moments include persevering during Covid; a time when the community was double whammed with a tornado during that time of crisis.
“The Chamber was a resource and support for businesses, a navigator for healthcare and questions and a reinforcement to our community in times of disaster and uncertainty,” she says.
And of course one of her most favorite milestones was having the honor of ushering in the 100th year of the chamber’s service.
“Our staff and volunteers went through files for a year leading to the celebration to discover that we still have the same values as our innovators and we have lived up to our mission to make Wilson County a better place to live, work and raise a family.”
Melanie says the future of the chamber depends upon our future leaders, “it is important that we listen to younger generations to keep relevant and remain strong in the future.
MEET A FEW CHAMBER LEGACIES:
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELSI CARTER
Melanie Minter President & CEO Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce
Ja’Rob Coggins, Chair of the Board 2024
I currently serve as the Chairman of the Board for the Chamber. I previously held the position of Vice Chair for the Economic Development Committee for 2 years. Serving meant everything to me, and being a part of the community that shows our associates that we actually care! The chamber has helped us stay connected to the community by being a part of the MANY events and opportunities to serve!
PROUD MOMENTS
I am most proud of becoming the Chairman of the Board and serving as the Chair during the 100-year anniversary of the chamber. I will reference an earlier question that asked my favorite memory, and I stated my 1st board meeting. I remember looking at the wall of all the past Chairs’ and realizing there were only three women and no one else who looked like me! I take pride in knowing I am the first person of color to hold this position and will strive to set a great example for others to know it’s possible!
FUTURE VIEWS
I see the chamber continue to grow and serve not only the traditional members of the chamber but the next generation of business leaders who are marketing and serving in different ways. I believe our chamber will continue to be a hub and resource for our growing community.
CONTINUED >
“It continues to be a joy serving our community, acts of service have always created a desire in me to help make people’s lives better.”
- Melanie Minter
Ja’Rob Coggins, Chair of the Board 2024
Pat Bone, Past President / First Woman 1996
I served on the Chamber Board of Directors for a total of five years, two of those years as Membership Chair, one year as President-Elect, one year as President, and one year as immediate Past President. Serving this community has meant the world to me. I am not originally from Wilson County, and I knew if I wanted to be a real part of the community, I needed to get involved. I could not think of a better place to begin than with the Chamber, this is the place I chose to live, work and raise my family. I love Wilson County and I believe the Chamber is definitely the lifeblood of a community.
PROUD MOMENTS
There were many proud moments for me at the Chamber, but one that shines brighter than others is this: The upstairs board room needed painting badly. I asked the Board who would be willing to come in on a Saturday and help me paint the room. Every member raised their hand and every board member showed up that Saturday morning to paint. I was so proud to be a part of this organization. Also, when I joined the Chamber, the Chamber carried a debt from the purchase of the building next door. Before the year ended, all original debt for the chamber was paid off. The Chamber was now debt free and the note was burned. Good Feeling!
FUTURE VIEWS
The sky is the limit for our Chamber. We have a strong director, great support staff and the city and county work well with the chamber. The Chamber is the HEART of any city.
Pat Bone, Past President / First Woman 1996
Ian Isbell, Chair Elect 2025
I have been involved with the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce since 2018 and have been a proud board member since 2022. I have served two years as the Ambassador Vice Chairman and currently serve as the Membership Vice Chairman as well as Chair Elect. Being born and raised here, I do have a deep bond with a lot of the people I see on a day to day basis. I love to see how this community comes together and supports all of its local business owners, teachers, and community members.
FAVORITE MEMORY
Hanging out with my family at the Taste of Wilson County events, and lot of great memories from the events around the Christmas Parade and the Fair Parades.
PROUD MOMENTS
I am most proud of our Chambers involvement in this community. It makes me feel so good when we go to a ribbon cutting and a national company that has grand openings all across the US says that they have never seen a community support them the way we do. I know how hard the chamber staff and all the volunteers work on these events so to hear that feedback always makes me smile.
FUTURE VIEWS
Our roots are so deep in this community and the love all the members have for this community is unmatched. Events do so well and continue to get better, and we continue to be here to serve our community.
“It makes me happy to watch businesses thrive, to watch people come together for the betterment of Lebanon and Wilson County and to watch people smile when I make a difference in their day.”
- Melanie Minter President & CEO of Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce
Ian Isbell, Chair Elect 2025
Jim Mills, Past President / Sports Council Division
I have served as Board Chair, VP of Economic Development, and continue to be a member of the Sports Counsel, Business & Education Coalition, and Economic Development committees. My wife and I moved to Lebanon in late 1976, we chose to make our home in Lebanon. We both worked in Lebanon, and we raised our two children in Lebanon. We have been deeply involved in the community, ranging from involvement with numerous civic and non-profit organizations, coaching recreational youth baseball, etc. We also choose to be a member of the community, and to be involved. Being a part of the community we feel we are helping in some small way to keep Lebanon a wonderful place to live and raise a family. This has proven to be very rewarding in the many people we can call friends.
FAVORITE MEMORY
Perhaps the two that come to mind are having the opportunity to serve as a member of the selection committees that chose our current and past Chamber Presidents and participating in the selling of race day programs at the Super Speedway.
PROUD MOMENTS
I am proud of how the Chamber has grown over the years. Member involvement has grown significantly. And the Chamber has been able to provide so many events, programs, and promotional opportunities for members. I am also very proud that we formed the Business & Education Coalition and through this we provide teacher classroom grants each year.
MOST HONORED BY Bring selected Industrialist of the Year, and most recently Lifetime Membership/Achievement award.
Jim Mills, Past President / Sports Council Division / 2024 Lifetime Member
A MUSICAL ODYSSEY
The Journey of Andre Madatian
ARTICLE BY SOFIA DELILAH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS
Andre and Realynn in Lancaster, CA at Photo Credit: Mandy Atmosvere
Andre and Realynn in Lancaster, CA at Photo Credit: Mandy Atmosvere
Photo Credit: Annelise Sarah
Support your local musicians! They are the foundation of the music industry. A simple like or share on social media can make a difference.
In the vibrant heart of Nashville, where every street corner hums with the promise of a new tune, Andre Madatian reflects on his extraordinary journey in music. “I was fortunate to know at a young age that music was my passion,” he shares, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. After studying music in college, a visit to Nashville during his studies sealed the deal. “I fell in love with the small-town feel and the openness of the music community. It felt like home.”
Like many aspiring musicians, Andre dove headfirst into the local scene, frequenting open jam nights to build connections. “In about nine months, I landed my first touring gig, and I was off playing guitar across the U.S. and internationally,” he recalls. The power of connections is palpable in Nashville; friends often become the key to new opportunities.
One of the most impactful experiences came when Andre performed for U.S. troops overseas. “Playing for our troops has been one of the most humbling experiences of my career,” he says. His first trip took him to Amman, Jordan, where he spent Christmas Eve entertaining soldiers. “The gratitude we received was incredible.” A subsequent visit to Kuwait further solidified this connection.
“I met Tori Payne, an EOD unit member who is also a guitarist. She built me a custom guitar, which now holds a special place in my home studio—a constant reminder of the sacrifices our troops make.”
Andre’s love for music isn’t just about performance; it extends to education. After earning his Master’s in music composition during the pandemic, he embraced teaching. Now a full-time professor at Tennessee State
University, he shares his passion with students, guiding them through music appreciation, arranging, and live sound reinforcement. “Teaching has been a joy, exposing students to different types of music,” he explains.
Touring with notable artists like Raelynn and Kane Brown has also shaped his career. One standout memory was performing at Fenway Park, a dream come true for the Boston native. “As a Red Sox fan, playing there was surreal,” he admits, recalling how he walked past his old apartment and soaked in the nostalgia of his college days.
Performing at the Grand Ole Opry for the first time was another milestone. “It felt like a rite of passage. I was the first one there, eager to soak in the history,” he recalls with excitement. The experience was even sweeter with family in attendance, making it a night to remember.
As Andre shares wisdom with his students, he emphasizes the importance of commitment: “You get out of your education what you put into it. Show up, be present, and be punctual. These values are crucial in the music industry.”
In this season of gratitude, Andre expresses heartfelt thanks for the support of his wife and parents, whose sacrifices shaped his journey. “I keep a gratitude list on my phone, reminding me of the good in life,” he says.
His parting message resonates deeply: “Support your local musicians! They are the foundation of the music industry. A simple like or share on social media can make a difference.” Andre Madatian’s journey is a testament to passion, connection, and the unwavering power of music.
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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FALL ESSENTIALS YOU CAN FIND IN MOUNT JULIET
(1) Glow pads
Glow Wilco’s signature Glow pads are a must-have for your skin this fall. Glow pads brighten and even your skin tone to help rejuvenate your glow from sun damage.
(2) BOM
Brookes on Main (BOM) has you covered with the most current in-style housewares that will add the perfect fall flavor to your home and events this season.
(3) Children’s Clothing
Magpies is consistently in stock with the latest trends in children’s clothing. Update your little’s fall wardrobe with Rylee + Cru essential pieces. Exclusively found at Magpies Mount Juliet.
(4) Womens Fall Wardrobe
Sisters WhimZy always has the most unique finds to add to your fall wardrobe. Check out some of their women’s picks for fall with their Dear John collection, exclusively found at Sister’s WhimZy.
(5) Invest in your feet
Invest in your feet and find your favorite new kicks locally at Foot Gear MJ. From HOKA, to Birkenstock (R), you will find something for everyone in the family this fall.
